SSL operating profit up

LONDON (Nov. 21)—SSL International P.L.C. recorded operating profits of $39 million, up from $36.3 million last year, in the first half of 2003, while the rubber and synthetic latex goods maker's sales rose 3 percent to $378 million. Pretax profit came in at $11.3 million, down from $12.8 million in the first six months of 2002. SSL, which recently sold its Marigold industrial gloves division and is apparently in the final stages of selling its medical glove division, noted that the disposal of the Marigold business will reduce operating profit by about 3.5 percent in the second half of the fiscal year.